NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen on Friday called on the Pakistan government and the army to take further steps to assist Afghanistan peace efforts.
Speaking during his monthly press conference in Brussels, Rasmussen insisted that human rights and specifically women’s rights, including the Afghan constitutions should be respected during peace process.
Rasmussen said, “First of all, let me stress the importance of a positive engagement of Pakistan. That’s been our position right from the outset that we need a positive engagement of Pakistan if we are to ensure long-term peace and stability not only in Afghanistan; but in the whole region. And in that respect, Pakistani authorities, the government, the armed forces to do their utmost to fight extremism and terrorism in the border region between Pakistan and Afghanistan.”
“I also think Pakistan can play a crucial role when it comes to facilitating a political process in Afghanistan. As you know, NATO as such is not involved in that political process. But we have a very clear position on that. And that was expressed at the NATO Summit in Chicago,” he said, adding, “To ensure a successful outcome of a political process, three conditions need to be met.”
“Firstly, that there is a strong Afghan ownership that the process is Afghan-led. That’s a first thing. Secondly that those involved in that political process fully respect the democratic constitution of Afghanistan, including full respect for human rights. And that, of course, also includes women’s rights. And thirdly, that those involved in such a political process cut their links with terrorist groups. If these conditions are met, I think there might be a fair chance to see a positive outcome of such a political process. And I think we should give it a chance,” he said.
The NATO secretary general also pointed towards the remarkable progress in Afghanistan security transition and said Afghan security forces were strong, and getting stronger. “They are getting support and sustainment not just now, but for years to come. As they stand ready to sustain the progress of the past 10 years, the international community will continue to stand with them.”
He said the ISAF would no longer plan, lead or execute combat operations. “But will continue to help the Afghan troops on such operations, when needed and will remain ready for combat until the end of 2014,” he said.
